The Blue Mosque is the most visited monument in Istanbul. Your tour will start in the Sultanahmet neighborhood which takes its name from the mosque. Marvel at this imperial Ottoman Mosque, commissioned by Sultan Ahmet the first and the last one built in this grand size. Witness the evocative power and splendor of its past as you enjoy a comprehensive guided tour of the Blue Mosque and its complementary buildings with a professional guide. Afterwards, enjoy the courtyard for breathtaking views of modern Istanbulites and take a gentle stroll around the neighborhood. 

Visit the Hagia Sophia with pre-reserved tickets and witness the most significant site of the Greek Orthodox religion in Istanbul. Learn how it was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople. In the Hagia Sophia, see elements of a mosque and a church standing next to each other. Admire the basilica’s stunning dome and minarets, and countless mosaics, paintings, and marble columns. Learn how the impressive İznik tiles were added over time in the Mosque, how the stunning Virgin Mary mosaic was made, and why the Ottomans chose to bury their sultans in the courtyard.

Walk the famous hippodrome of Constantinople. Learn about the obelisks that adorn the square. Take a break between two major monuments for the best views and learn about the significance of the hippodrome during the Byzantine times of the city.

Explore the Arasta Bazaar nestled right under the shadow of the Blue Mosque to understand 17th Century architecture of public buildings. It is a well-known but modest open-air market in the heart of Sultanhamet. Enjoy a last-minute tea break and hunt for gifts to take home.